Discovering Ontario’s Local Brew Scene: Collingwood’s Blue Mountains Brewery Tour
If you’re someone who enjoys discovering new tastes and learning about how your favorite craft beers are made, this Blue Mountains Brewery Tour from Collingwood might just be your next great outing. It’s designed for beer lovers who want to explore the local brewing scene without the hassle of driving, thanks to comfortable transportation and pre-arranged venues. We’re not talking about a rushed crawl — this is a well-paced, informative, and relaxed experience that balances tastings with a bit of behind-the-scenes knowledge.
What really catches our attention about this tour is how it offers access to pre-booked breweries, meaning you skip the lines and the usual uncertainties. Plus, the inclusion of a behind-the-scenes brewery tour makes it more than just sampling beers — it’s about understanding the craft and process behind Ontario’s excellent local brews. The other thing we appreciate? The guide is there to share insights, making the experience genuinely educational and engaging, not just boozy.
However, if you’re not much for beer or have specific dietary restrictions, this tour might not be as appealing. It’s primarily focused on craft beer flights and brewery tours, so food isn’t included, and you’ll want to be comfortable with alcohol consumption. Still, it’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or even solo travelers looking for a fun, social way to learn more about Ontario’s beer scene.
This tour suits those who enjoy craft beer, social outings, and want a hassle-free way to explore local breweries. It’s also a good pick if you’re visiting the Blue Mountains area and want a structured, guided experience without the stress of planning each stop.
Key Points
- All-in-one brewery experience: Includes visits to three local breweries with tastings and behind-the-scenes tours.
- Convenient transport: An air-conditioned minibus makes traveling between breweries easy and comfortable.
- Educational insight: Guides provide background on Ontario’s beer, wine, and spirits scene, enriching your tasting experience.
- No need to drive: You can relax, enjoy your drinks, and let someone else handle transportation.
- Flexible options: Tours are available with or without beer tastings, catering to different preferences.
- Additional costs: Food isn’t included, but snacks or lunch might be available at the breweries.
An In-Depth Look at the Blue Mountains Brewery Tour
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Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere
The tour kicks off in Blue Mountain Village, which is a lively hub of shops, cafes, and outdoor activities. Meeting your guide next to the Village Market, you’ll get a quick intro to what’s ahead. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, perfect if you’re traveling with friends or even solo but looking to connect over shared interests.
The group size is generally manageable, fostering conversation and making it easy to ask questions. From there, you hop on a comfortable minibus—important for a smooth ride between stops—and the journey begins.
The Breweries and What to Expect
First stop: Either a brewery in Blue Mountains or Collingwood, depending on the day’s schedule. Here, your guide offers a brief overview of the local craft beer scene before giving you a behind-the-scenes tour of the brewery itself. You’ll see how the beers are made, which adds a genuine appreciation for what you’ll be tasting later.
Beer flights: At each brewery, you’ll sample 4 oz flights—roughly four sips per tasting—allowing you to compare different styles or flavors. The variety can include hop-forward IPAs, smooth lagers, or perhaps something more experimental. The focus here is on tasting and understanding the craft rather than just knocking back drinks.
Lunch/snacks: At the second brewery, there’s an opportunity to purchase tasty food or snacks. This pairing can elevate the tasting experience, helping to balance the beers’ flavors and making the outing more enjoyable. Some reviews highlight how good the food options are, especially if you’re hungry after a morning of exploring.
Final stop: The last brewery offers a fresh set of flights and additional insights into Ontario’s brewing culture. Your guide might share stories about local ingredients, brewing trends, or the history of the breweries.
The Educational Element
One of the standout features is how the tour isn’t just about drinking — it’s about learning. The guide provides an overview of Ontario’s craft beer, wine, and spirits scene, adding context to your tasting journey. If you’re curious about what makes certain beers unique or want to know more about local producers, this is the part you’ll find especially valuable.
More Great Tours NearbyPrice and Value
At $107 per person, the cost covers transportation, guide services, brewery tours, and tastings at three different locations. Considering that you get multiple beer flights, a behind-the-scenes look, and a guided experience, it’s a fair price for what you’re getting. It’s worth noting that food isn’t included, so if you’re hungry, plan ahead to buy snacks or lunch at the breweries.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Easy, all-in-one experience—no driving needed.
– Access to pre-booked breweries, avoiding long lines or no-shows.
– Informative behind-the-scenes tours and insights from a knowledgeable guide.
– Opportunity to sample multiple local beers in a relaxed setting.
– Optional food pairing enhances the tasting experience.
Cons:
– No food included—if you’re expecting a sit-down lunch, you’ll need to pay extra.
– Not suitable for those under 19 or with mobility issues—no mention of accessibility.
– If you’re not into beer, this might not be the right fit, as the focus is on craft brews.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This experience is ideal for beer enthusiasts, friends looking for a fun day out, or even visitors to Ontario who want a taste of the local brewing culture. It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy guided, educational tours and don’t want to worry about driving or planning each stop. If you’re interested in learning how craft beers are made and want to sample different styles, this tour offers a solid balance of education and enjoyment.
Collingwood: Blue Mountains Brewery Tour with Tastings
FAQs
Is food included in the tour?
No, food isn’t included. However, you’ll have the chance to purchase snacks or lunch at the second brewery, which can be a good way to complement your tastings.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 4 hours, typically available in the morning or afternoon, giving you plenty of time to enjoy without feeling rushed.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just bring a valid ID or passport (for age verification), closed-toe shoes for the brewery visits, and perhaps a growler if you want to take some beer home.
Is the tour suitable for families?
It’s designed for those aged 19 and over, so not suitable for children or teenagers.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in your plans.
What is the transportation like?
Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned minibus, making the ride comfortable and convenient. It’s a shared group experience.
Are the breweries accessible for those with mobility issues?
The available information doesn’t specify accessibility features, so if that’s a concern, it’s best to contact Canadian Craft Tours directly for details.
In the end, this Blue Mountains Brewery Tour offers a balanced, engaging way to explore Ontario’s craft beer landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just curious about local brews, the combination of tastings, behind-the-scenes views, and expert guidance makes it a worthwhile outing. Just remember to come hungry for knowledge and maybe a little extra cash for snacks or souvenirs. Cheers!
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